Yoga Among the Planes

The sound of a loud engine purring following a deep voice shouting “clear” brings me back to childhood. The bright orange flags, the yellow directional signs that can be seen in the deepest of night. The long roads that seem endless, hangars lining the route one after another. This isn’t a foreign place to me; this is completely familiar. The familiarity brings a rush of emotions to the surface.

In all my years, never did I imagine to be doing yoga among the planes.

In January, I went home for my grandfather’s funeral. It was the first for my family as I’ve been extremely blessed to have all of my grandparents throughout my life and into my adulthood and parenting years. My grandfather was a pilot and his Cessna was his most prized possession. He was a proud man, a well-groomed man and a funny man. I heard all of these traits as his voice rang in my head while I maneuvered my way to Sky Loft Yoga Studios in Overland Park, Kan.

Typically when I walk into a new studio I feel nervous and a bit on edge. I’ve always felt out of place at a new studio — it’s natural for me until I see how it flows and where I fit. Walking up the stairs, a little plane in the corner of the entry way greeted me before I made my presence clear. At that moment, I felt warm and centered.

The owner, Cara is a beautiful, fun and enthusiastic soul. She is kind and goofy, yet well practiced and knowledgeable in how the body flows. Her class was welcoming and kind and made me feel a part of the conversation instantly. During our practice, the rain poured outside and suddenly I felt the need to giggle. I heard my grandpa whispering that the ceiling was too low to fly so we’d have to wait for it to rise. Rain wasn’t a problem, but coverage was. I felt my heart and face smile. I continued to flow and moved in every way I was led to. I was completely lost in the moment and my hour flew by.

The studio is all encompassing and gives off a real sense of community. Each corner offers a different kind of energy. The planes, plants, sayings and oils embrace Cara’s vision. Her dream was to build a place for anyone to come practice, no matter where they are in their practice. She just wants people to practice and share that with others. She isn’t looking to teach HER way; she’s looking to flow together. I absolutely loved my experience and my time watching Cara move so effortlessly.

Jennifer and Cara.

Not everyone will feel the overwhelming emotions that connected me deeply to Cara’s studio. I was not aware of the studio being in the aviation center. My grandfather’s death is still new and fresh and I am learning to settle those down as the days go by. What I love, and know that others will love, is that this location is among an environment that is different than most.

I encourage you to try yoga in a studio surrounded by planes. It is the most silent space until it isn’t. When that moment strikes, feel the vibration from the motors buzzing and the wind circling from the jetway outside. Allow it to flow through your mind and body, move with it and you’ll soon see why Sky Loft Yoga chose this space. I promise you will not be disappointed.

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